The White-Frasier report, commissioned by the UK’s Infrastructure and Projects Authority and released in July 2023, has important lessons for public-private partnerships in Canada. Although further ahead in their PFI or P3 agreements given their earlier adoption of this model, the experience of the UK showcases what may lie ahead for more Canadian projects if corrective action isn’t taken soon. Governments in charge of managing projects are understaffed, there is a greater reliance on consultants to fill the gaps and an increasing number of disputes are among some of the issues identified by White and Frasier. Overall, the report found both the public and private sectors agreed that successful long-term agreements require a greater degree of goodwill and flexibility. Here in Canada, a breakdown in the third ‘P’ and its collaborative spirit has resulted in an uptick in litigations, disputes playing out in the press, a skewed risk matrix and a search for alternative models. In his keynote presentation and fireside chat, report co-author Barry White will detail his findings, explore similarities in the Canadian market and answer audience questions.

White previously worked at Partnerships UK, advising public authorities across the UK on the successful procurement of PFI projects. He has more than 25 years’ experience in infrastructure development, finance and delivery across all sectors. His roles have included chief executive at Transport for the North, chief executive at Scottish Futures Trust, managing director at BAM PPP UK (now Invesis), investment director at Skanska, and divisional managing director at Morrison Construction Group. Prior to that he was an officer in the army.

Keynote Speaker: 

• Barry White, Chair, Non-Executive Director and Infrastructure Consultant 

Introduction & Fireside Chat Host:

• Brian C. Kelsall, Partner, Fasken

Read up on the expertise of our speakers